Seward County Community College
The Seward County Community College academic year 2025-26 began Wednesday, with students beginning day and evening classes. Enrollment at the college continues on an upward trend, following a record-breaking summer and growing numbers in the Saints Anywhere online platform.
Enrollment is still open for the fall semester, and multiple sessions begin at various dates in the coming months. For a full schedule, or for more information about how to begin college in August, visit sccc.edu online or contact the Admissions office at 620-417-1100.
Bennett begins term as president of Jayhawk Conference
SCCC President Brad Bennett will serve as president of the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) during the 2025-26 academic year. As head of the three-person executive committee of the league, Bennett will provide leadership and oversight of the league’s commissioner.
“The way it’s structured, I served as incoming president last year, and will remain on the committee next year as past president,” Bennett said.
The role involves oversight and accountability for the 20 members of the highly competitive league. Tasks range from handling issues to ensuring the league aligns with its collective goals, while representing the various institutions’ views.
Soccer, volleyball seasons start fall competition
• Men’s soccer at SCCC kicked off its first official game of the regular season last weekend at 7 p.m. Saturday at Redskin Field.
• Women’s soccer will open at home at 6 p.m. Sept. 10 vs. Barton, at Redskin Field.
• The first home game for Saints volleyball is 6 p.m. Sept. 3 vs. Butler, in the Greenhouse.
Cafeteria services contract renewal; services open to public
The SCCC dining center is open for the year, following a complete review of the expiring 10-year contract with cafeteria contractor Great Western Dining.
The SCCC board voted at its June meeting to adjust the existing plan. Among the changes: no more meals served at Board of Trustees meetings.
While the standard fare at the monthly meetings consisted of various sandwiches, salads, and fresh fruit, the board opted to cut the complimentary food.
“We’re not here for ourselves,” noted board chair Ron Oliver, to which trustee Dustin Ormiston responded, “we can take a pay cut.” The board, elected by Seward County voters, does not receive monetary compensation for its service to SCCC.
The new contract with GWD brings the college budget into greater balance so that SCCC does not suffer financial loss due to meal pricing. Some menu items will be scaled back, including the occasional steak night specials, but the overall effect will not negatively affect students, noted Bennett.
Student clubs and programs begin recruitment, fundraising
Student life is a vital piece of the college experience at SCCC, and this fall promises to provide a wide array of opportunities for students.
Following a packed schedule of orientation and social events during the first week of fall semester, several clubs have already announced fundraisers, socials, and other opportunities. Among them:
• Cosmetology students are offering raffle tickets to raise money for travel to the Premiere conference in San Antonio Sept. 28-29. Billed as “the ultimate beauty experience,” the event provides valuable training, networking and inspiration for the SCCC cosmetology students.
• Cosmetology instructor (and SCCC alumna) Marlen Gallegos said the conference is “one of the biggest events in the beauty industry, and will benefit students’ education and future careers.” Tickets are $10 each for a raffle basket valued at $430 in beauty products.
“If you’d like to purchase tickets, we’d be happy to come by your office — just let us know,” Gallegos said. “You’re also welcome to stop by the Cosmetology Building anytime to purchase directly. Donations are welcome and appreciated.”
The Cosmetology department can accept cash, checks and cards.
Detours College Ministries will host an ice cream social for interested students from 8 to 9:15 p.m. Thursday in the SCCC Student Union. The non-denominational Bible study group meets weekly through the year, usually with dessert served along with thoughtful discussion.
“Indulge in a delightful experience of flavors, games, fun, and frozen treats at this event,” said group sponsor Norma Jean Dodge. “We will also talk about our plans for the 2025-26 school year.”
